Google on Tuesday, September 5 announced the appointment of Alex Okosi, as the new Managing director for the tech giant in Africa.
“Google today has announced the appointment of Alex Okosi, currently serving as the Managing Director for YouTube in EMEA Emerging Markets, as the new Managing Director for Google in Africa,” read part of the statement.
Alex Uche Okosi is a Nigerian-born, US-educated business executive who served ViacomCBS now Paramount Global as the executive vice president and Managing director of Viacom CBS Africa and BET international before moving to YouTube.
Okosi has taken over the position of managing director from Nitin Gajaria, who served in the position for the last five years.
After his appointment, Okosi is expected to be responsible for Google’s operations in Africa including programs to help businesses and economies on the continent to grow, as well as improving access and providing tool to help the next billion users get more from the web.
“Alex is a proven leader with a wealth of experience in the media and technology industries. He has a deep understanding of African countries and a passion for using technology to empower people and businesses,” said Meir Brand, VICE President of EMEA Emerging Markets at Google.
Who is Alex Okosi?
Okosi is a seasoned media, entertainment, and technology leader. In his most recent position at YouTube, he played a pivotal role in steering the platforms growth and expansion across Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey.
“I am excited at the prospect of leading Googles team in Africa and the opportunity to be an even closer part of this diverse and dynamic region, which is so close to my heart.
I am a firm believer in the potential for technology and in particular, the internet to improve peoples lives and to help individuals and businesses in Africa thrive,” read part of the statement.
Google has been operating in Africa for over a decade and has offices in Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa where the company’s products and services are used by millions of people in Africa everyday.